When embarking on the journey of aesthetic treatments, the integrity of the dermal barrier becomes a pivotal concern. Dr. Giulia D’Anna, a renowned Cosmetic Beauty Expert and Dentist and host of The Dermal Distinction Podcast, sheds light on the crucial aspects of maintaining and protecting this first line of defense against environmental aggressors. Here’s an in-depth look at the dermal barrier and expert recommendations on how to protect it during treatments that might compromise its integrity.
Understanding the Dermal Barrier
The skin, our body’s largest organ, consists of several layers, each playing a unique role in protecting our internal systems. “Many refer to the ‘dermal barrier’ as the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis or stratum corneum,” explains Dr. D’Anna. This layer is composed of cells known as corneocytes, bound by lipids like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, forming a robust bricks-and-mortar structure. It acts as the primary shield against UV rays, pollution, and other harmful environmental elements.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
To minimize potential damage to the dermal barrier, Dr. D’Anna emphasizes the importance of adequate skin preparation. “The intensity of the treatment dictates the preparation required,” she notes. For aggressive treatments, a longer preparation time is crucial. A staple in this preparatory phase is the use of retinol. “Retinol helps regulate and accelerate the skin cell cycle, enabling quicker recovery and optimal skin function,” Dr. D’Anna advises.
Protecting Against Pigmentation
Dr. D’Anna recommends the use of a pigment inhibitor, particularly vital for those with darker skin tones or who tan easily. “Skin trauma often triggers a pigment response. To avoid long-term pigmentation issues, it’s crucial not to pick at scabs post-treatment and ensure that the skin doesn’t produce excess melanin during the healing process,” she warns.
Post-Treatment Care
Following aesthetic procedures, adhering to your skin therapist’s guidance is critical. “Post-treatment, the skin is busy rebuilding its barrier and should not be overwhelmed with potent skincare products,” states Dr. D’Anna. She also stresses the importance of sun protection: “Always use SPF to prevent further trauma and pigmentation changes due to UV exposure.”
Soothing and Healing
Dr. D’Anna suggests incorporating a hyaluronic acid-infused sheet mask to soothe and hydrate the skin post-treatment. Additionally, booking LED therapy sessions can be beneficial. “Red LED light is excellent for promoting collagen production and healing, while yellow light can reduce inflammation,” she explains.
Protecting the dermal barrier is essential when undergoing aesthetic treatments. By preparing the skin properly before procedures and following through with a careful post-treatment regimen, you can ensure that your skin remains healthy, resilient, and radiant. Dr. D’Anna’s expert advice provides a clear pathway for anyone looking to maintain their skin’s integrity while achieving aesthetic goals. Remember, the right care and products can make a significant difference in your treatment outcomes and overall skin health.
Ageless Recommends: 6 skincare heroes to protect and repair the skin barrier
Clemence Organics Ultimate Biome Spritz
Harness the power of nature with the Ultimate Biome Spritz, formulated by naturopath Bridget Carmady. Designed to nourish, tone, and fortify your skin, this spritz supports your skin’s natural defenses against environmental stressors. Featuring Australian Kakadu Plum, the richest natural source of Vitamin C, and Green Tea extract, known for its potent antioxidant properties, it protects against oxidative stress and pollutants. Probiotics are infused to boost the skin’s microbiome, enhancing the protective barrier, while Hyaluronic Acid ensures deep hydration by retaining moisture. Organic Rose Hydrosol calms inflammation, tightens pores, and balances pH levels, preserving the skin’s delicate acid mantle. Ideal for maintaining your skin’s health and beauty on the run or deskside.
$59.99 for 100 mL
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Biojuve Living Biome Essentials Duo
Unlock the secret to revitalised skin with the Biojuve Living Biome Essentials Duo, featuring the Living Biome Essentials Serum and the Activating Mist. This transformative duo works synergistically to rejuvenate your skin by leveraging the groundbreaking Xycrobe™ technology developed by Dr Thomas Hitchcock. The Living Biome Essentials Serum, infused with this proprietary living microbe technology, targets coarse wrinkles, fine lines, uneven texture, tone, and photodamage, promoting a visibly healthier and more radiant complexion. The Activating Mist serves as an essential catalyst, activating the serum’s living microbes to optimize skin health.
The core of this technology lies in the C.acnes defendens microbes, which continuously produce a bespoke blend of Bioessentials™—a potent mix of proteins, fatty acids, polypeptides, and antioxidants. This unique formulation is designed to nurture distressed skin, combat environmental stressors, and maintain a balanced skin biome.
$299
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The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum
A great budget buy to fortify the skin barrier, alleviate discomfort, and diminish redness. This versatile serum is suited for all skin types and comes in a smooth emulsion format. Its comprehensive ingredient list includes powerhouse components like Centella Asiatica Phytotechnologies, which aid in skin repair, and Ceramides that strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Niacinamide works to calm skin and reduce inflammation, while Vitamin B12 and Ginger Root Extract soothe and enhance skin’s appearance. Additional elements like Bisabolol and Epigallocatechin gallate provide further redness reduction and antioxidant protection.
$29 for 30ml
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Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Sleep Mask
A restorative at home treatment designed to intensely nourish and strengthen your skin’s barrier as you sleep. This mask is a powerhouse of skin wellness, featuring refined Bilberry Seed Oil, rich in essential fatty acids (Omegas 3 and 6), that fortifies the skin’s barrier, promoting smooth and radiant skin. Hibiscus Extract, known for its potent hydrating properties, quickly moisturizes to prevent water loss, ensuring your skin retains its vitality and health.Clinically proven to repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier, this sleep mask makes your skin more receptive to active ingredients, enhancing the effectiveness of other skincare products. Suited for all skin types—balanced, oily, combination, dry, and sensitive—the mask also incorporates soothing Canadian Willowherb, which offers antioxidant-like benefits to minimize oxidative stress.
$58 for 80ml
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Fresh Face Skin Soother Treatment
Experience relief from persistent skin issues with the Fresh Face Skin Soother Treatment, designed to combat conditions like dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, acute acne, and sensitivity. This treatment targets the root causes of discomfort, often linked to an impaired acid mantle and lipid barrier due to factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetics, diet, environmental stress, and past product misuse.
The Soother Treatment offers multiple benefits: it reinforces the lipid barrier, reducing skin sensitivity; soothes and calms irritation while diminishing redness; and regulates oil production to maintain moisture content and prevent congestion. This all-in-one solution addresses the underlying triggers of skin sensitivity, ensuring a healthier, balanced, and even-toned complexion.
$49.95 for 50ml
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Leitin Oil Cleanser
Discover deep and nourishing skin cleansing. This luxurious oil blend, including Sunflower, Camellia, Squalane, and Grapeseed, melts away excess oil, impurities, makeup, and SPF with ease. It’s enriched with soothing Sea Fennel, rejuvenating Banksia Flower, and revitalising Salt Bush extracts, each selected for their protective and strengthening properties.This cleanser is an ideal choice for anyone with delicate, lipid-dry, acne-prone, or reactive skin. The combination of hydrating oils and potent botanical extracts ensures a comfortable and refreshing cleansing experience, promoting a healthy, radiant complexion.
$68 for 150ml
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Follow Dr Giulia D’Anna on her podcast Dermal Distinction
